blue
t he student voic e o f gr a n v ille h ig h s c h ool
NO LONGER TABOO
prints Volume 12 Issue 3
Spring 2022
STRANDED ON SPRING BREAK
JUMPING THROUGH ADVERSITY
ISRAEL OR BUST
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VOL. 12 NO. 3 blueprints 1
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
MAGAZINE EDITOR Alysha Wallace
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s the school year continues, students begin to learn many new things about their teachers and classmates. This issue, we decided to highlight some on the things that we see around the school such as tattoos. Several staff members and students in GHS have tattoos, and Caden Mcdermott shares their thoughts on tattoos in the workplace. Many students traveled out of state in order to enjoy Spring Break. Bella Cox talks to students about the importance of breaks. Danielle Varrasso highlights the different people who were stranded on their travels back from vacations. Many of our BluePrints staff agreed that road trips are better than flying when traveling, which is the message of our staff editorial. With the passing of the new Senate daylight savings bill, many opinions have arisen. Lydia Priano takes her own stance on the bill. Along with the new bill, online shopping has seen a spike as well. Ella Kunar warns against the risks of shopping with online store Shein. One of our staff members had decided to study abroad this semester in Israel. Maddie Barker interviewed Abby Sanders on how school is in Israel compared to here at GHS. Another spotlight article focuses on sophomore Corey Hammond. Ella Kunar writes about Hammond’s success as a dancer and his goals. Our winter sports teams put on a show this year. Kaison Durham wraps up the seasons and highlights all of their achievements. As lacrosse
ON THE COVER
"Taboo Tattoos" by Sophia Crestale
MISSION STATEMENT
The award-winning staff of BluePrints aims to inform, entertain and inspire readers with stories about Granville High School and the surrounding community.
WEBSITE EDITOR Caden McDermott
BUSINESS MANAGER Danielle Varrasso
BROADCAST EDITOR Ella Mork
ALYSHA WALLACE season begins, Danielle Varrasso talks with star lacrosse player Michael Sarap, who plans to play at the next level. With many controversies arising over transgender athletes, I decided to give my take on the Lia Thomas issue. Caden McDermott gives his take on disrespectful tweets sent out after a football player’s death. Kaison Durhamwrites about football kicker Davidson Jump’s life threatening health issue. With new games and movies coming out this year, Colden Kadlic gives his take on the new Star Wars Lego game. Along with new games, Ella Mork critiques the new location for Whit’s. We hope you enjoy this issue!
Ella Kunar
PROMOTION MANAGER Bella Cox
WRITERS Madeline Barker Kaison Durham Colden Kadlic Lydia Priano
ARTIST Sophia Crestale
ADVISER Amy J. Tolbert
EDITORIAL POLICY
EDITORIAL OFFICE
BluePrints Magazine Granville High School 248 New Burg St. Granville, OH 43023
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SOCIAL MEDIA
GHS BluePrints @GHSBluePrints @granvilleblueprints
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SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
BluePrints, Granville High School’s newsmagazine, is published by students in Journalism. As a forum of student expression, the goal of BluePrints is to provide the high school students’ perspective on relevant issues concerning the school, the community and the world. Editorial decisions are based on timeliness, relevance and appropriateness. Opinions expressed in the newspaper are not necessarily that of the entire staff, student body or school. Letters to the editor will be published as space allows. BluePrints does accept advertisements; however, the staff reserves the right to withdraw ads.
IN THIS ISSUE NEWS
NEWS BRIEFS 4 PROM 4 STRANDED ON SPRING BREAK 5 GRADUATION 5 COVER STORY 6-7
OPINION
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STAFF EDITORIAL 8 OP-EDS 9 READER OPINION 10
LIFESTYLE
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SPRING BREAK 13 FEATURE SPOTLIGHT ABBY SANDERS 14 NATIONAL HONORS SOCIETY 15 FEATURE SPOTLIGHT CORY HAMMOND 17
SPORTS
SPORTS BRIEFS 18 ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT 19 SPORTS WITH DURHAM 20 SPORTS OPINION LIA THOMAS 20 FEATURE SPOTLIGHT DAVIDSON JUMP 21
ENTERTAINMENT
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STAFF PICKS 22-23 LEGO STAR WARS REVIEW 22 NEW WHIT'S LOCATION 23 UPCOMING EVENTS 23 VOL. 12 NO. 3 blueprints 3
NEWS
NEWS BRIEFS BY LYDIA PRIANO
NEW PRINCIPAL NAMED Since Mr. Durst's resignation as the principal of GHS was approved, the school district has been searching for a new principal. After searching, they have selected Scott Hinton to be GHS's new principal. He is coming with five years of experience at Amanda-Clearcreek High school. Before selecting Mr. Hinton, seven potential principals visited Granville High School to be interviewed and given a tour of the school. There were four different groups of people who interviewed the candidates. There was a group of students, administration, people from the community, and teachers who each got to talk to the potential principals.
NEW ROUNDABOUT PROPOSED NEAR HIGH SCHOOL Granville is going into a thirty-day public comment period regarding the construction of a new roundabout. The roundabout will be built at the intersection at North Pearl and New Burg Street. It is supposed to take place over a six-month period. Workers will begin construction at the beginning of April 2024. Planners want to build the roundabout to help with traffic flow. It will also help with providing safety to people walking or people riding bikes.
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'EPIC' EVENING PLANNED After 2 years of restricted Prom, students look forward to a "normal" Prom
A group pose for a picture before last year's Prom. Last year's Prom was held at Bryn Du like previous Proms; however, it was a restricted event due to Covid protocols. Photo courtesy of Mindy Kunar. BY MADELINE BARKER AND ELLA KUNAR embers of the Prom committee have been preparing since the fall by raising money through cleaning up after football games and have been meeting throughout the winter to discuss budgeting and possible themes. In preparation for Prom, students have been picking their outfits, deciding who they will be attending with, making reservations at restaurants and deciding on their postdance plans. Prom is on April 23 from 8-11p.m. at the usual spot, the Bryn Du field house, with the prom king and queen being announced at 10 pm. Thanks to the planning, preparation and extra work put in by members of the Prom committee, the theme will be “Enchanted Garden.” “Be expecting a lot of fairy lights and vines,” said co-prom president Sejal Sutliff. Principal Matt Durst confirmed that there will definitely be a DJ; however, one has not been decided yet. “Believe it or not, the DJ has one of the most important jobs of the night,” Durst said.
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This year, juniors and seniors who attend Granville will be able to bring underclassmen from Granville and high school students from other schools. Each upperclassmen from Granville will be allowed one guest who is not a Granville upperclassmen. Students will only be allowed to bring students who are currently in high school. Students who are not from Granville will be required to fill out a form before the dance and show an ID to get into the dance. There will be a waiver for guests so that members of the staff can make sure they are informed on who to contact if a guest is in a compromising position. Everyone except Granville seniors will be required to pay $40 for a ticket. Seniors who attend Granville will get in for free; however, guests of Granville seniors either from other schools or underclassmen who attend Granville will be required to pay for the ticket. Students are not the only ones excited for the dance. ”It is going to be epic,” Durst said.
NEWS
STRANDED ON SPRING BREAK BY DANIELLE VARASSO s Ella Kunar and Shelene Day were leaving for the airport for their flight home from Naples, they got a message that their flight was canceled. The airline offered them nothing but a flight home two days later at 5 a.m.. They did not have many options so they took that flight home, causing Kunar's dad to miss work and the girls to miss school on Monday. They had to spend more money for extra nights in a hotel at the very last minute. Their only other option was to possibly rent a car and make the 18 hour drive home. Many airlines canceled flights at the end of Spring break, causing many students to be absent the Monday after Spring Break. The flights people had booked were planned months ahead were canceled due to weather and staffing issues. Even worse, they were getting canceled on very short notice; sometimes the flight would be delayed hours until they finally decided to cancel it, putting a wrench in people’s lives and plans. The airports were in absolute chaos as people’s transportation, trips, reservations and luggage were changed without advanced notice. The airlines apparently have had a pilot shortage in which no one wants to work, as well as delays to a storm heading towards Florida. Many families were stuck waiting for the next flight they could find, driving home, or finding random connections that would give them better chances of getting home. This created an inconvenience to many families all over, as transportation was limited and uncertain. English teacher Beth Simmons cut her Orlando trip short a day early after her flight was canceled at 11:50 the night before. After being on hold with Southwest for hours, they told her she could not get home till Tuesday. On the bright side, her family received a $200 voucher for their inconveniences. Her family ended up renting a car and leaving by 9:30 a.m. Saturday
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morning and they arrived in Columbus seventeen hours later. “There were a lot of Florida cars when I went to drop the rental car off in Columbus,” Simmons noted. Forensics teacher Mrs. Hoover, who was vacationing in Sarasota with her family when she received notification that their flight home was canceled, took a less direct route home. The airline offered her another flight for much later in the week, but she did not want to miss that much time off of work. They quickly found a flight to Chicago. Hoover said that they thought that if they could not find a flight from Chicago to Columbus, they could rent a car. Luckily they were able to get a flight to Columbus, but they had to stay the night at the airport. “I made my son a bed out of paper towels,” Hoover said. “We were exhausted from not sleeping all night.” Freshman Margaux Housteau and her brother Ashton were also stuck in the airport, not getting many answers. Their flights were delayed for hours until finally they would be canceled. They had a connecting flight into Philadelphia, but due to the long delays, they were unable to make their flight that would bring them to Columbus. Ashton was able to find a sooner flight and get home that Monday night, but the rest of the family ended up having to stay overnight to catch a flight home that Tuesday morning.
Jace Hoover waits for his flight at the Chicago airport. His mother, teacher Mara Hoover, made a bed out of paper towels. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Hoover
Claire Lilly and Addison Lilly celebrate after last year's graduation ceremony. Photo courtesy of Jim Lilly.
RAD GRAD CEREMONY Graduation will be 'normal' BY ELLA MORK fter two years of modified graduation activities, administration anticipates a “normal” graduation event for the class of 2022. Graduation this year will be at Walter J. Hodge’s stadium at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 29. Every student will get ten tickets for free on Hometown Ticketing, where students will get to choose their tickets, according to senior class adviser Beth Simmons. If it rains, graduation will either get pushed back later in the day or moved to the gym. For the past two years, Covid has impacted graduation. The class of 2020, unfortunately, had to have a drive-through graduation. All graduation parties were canceled, which was very upsetting for graduates who planned for their parties since they were little. The class of 2020 did have a car parade, which has become a new tradition. Last year’s class was able to have a graduation, but it was held outside at Walter J. Hodge’s Stadium. They still continued to have a parade as a fun send-off. Previously, graduation was held at the Mitchell Center at Denison University, but graduation will be held at the stadium going forward. “Graduation this year will be normal but at the stadium, which I think went really well last year,” Principal Matt Durst said.
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VOL. 12 NO. 3 blueprints 5
COVER STORY
NO LONGER TABOO
Students and staff share their stories behind their body art
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BY CADEN MCDERMOTT hen people imagine someone with tattoos, images of people covered head to toe in tattoos and crazy piercings are often conjured up; however, people with tattoos are often teachers, parents and other members of the community who many may not realize are tattooed. The stigma and stereotypes around tattoos are quickly changing. Until recent years, many people with tattoos struggled to get professional jobs and were seen as outcasts. Now, students and faculty are expressing themselves through their tattoos more than ever because of the changing perception of tattoos in our society. Tattoos are a form of body modification and self expression. Many people’s tattoos have a very intricate and personal meaning to them. “I got my tattoos to commemorate a loved one permanently in a place that I can always see,” senior Lucian Davis said. However, the beautiful thing about tattoos is that they do not have to have a deeply personal meaning. For many people they choose to get something that simply looks cool and they want that to be on their body forever. “Some of them have meaning, such as family significance,” senior Colin Sheehan said. “A couple of mine are just because I like the way they look.” For 18 year old students wanting to get tattoos there is a tough balance between being legally able to get a tattoo, but still living at home under their parents' rules. Most do not risk getting the tattoo without their parents approval. “I was a little worried when I first approached my parents about getting a tattoo,” Davis said. “My family is very supportive though because my tattoos are in memory of my loved ones.” Others do not have to worry about the fear of persecution coming from their parents, rather they are influenced by them. “My dad has always had tattoos and he got them at a young age, so I
No'el Fortner shares her tattoo based on the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird." Senior Lucian Davis's three tattoos are on display during a wrestling match. Photos courtesy of Fortner and Davis.
always found them cool and growing up seeing other peoples artwork and designs have inspired me,” Sheehan said. So many parents allowing their kids to get tattoos demonstrates clear evidence that the stigma around tattoos is changing. However, parental acceptance does not stop strangers and peers from mistreating those with tattoos. “Usually when people see my tattoos it goes well, there is always the occasional elderly person who wants to give the ‘your body is a temple’ speech, but usually they are complimented,” Davis said. “I do think people definitely look at me differently, but I am okay with that; tattoos are for me, not them.” This harsh judgment comes mainly from the older generations who are not accustomed with the changing perspective on tattoos. Many of the students embrace others with tattoos and appreciate them. “Honestly, a lot of people like them and find them intriguing and aren’t scared away by them, which is what you would normally expect,” Sheehan said. “I think people have gotten used to the tattoo culture and sort of embrace it instead of shunning those who have them” In the past, it was common for people going into professional fields to get their tattoos in places that no one could see in order to get jobs.
For tattooed teachers this kind of discrimination has been especially prevalent. “My first two tattoos were not visible so I didn’t have to be as worried about the administration getting upset about them,” English teacher No’el Fortner said. With tattoos becoming more mainstream, schools have become more relaxed about tattoo policies for teachers. Currently the 2019 Equality Act is making its way through congress, which would effectively end the discrimination against tattooed teachers. “When I first started teaching it was definitely not okay, like you are supposed to be a professional you can not have tattoos, you are not a biker,” Fortner said. “Over my twenty years of teaching that has become very different, I think people are a lot more accepting, so I do have a few visible tattoos now.” Tattoos were once for outcasts and counterculture, but now that it has entered the mainstream, it has created a unique community of people who are connected by their body art. “When I see someone with tattoos I think I am more inclined to go up to them and connect with them about it because that is something we share right off the bat,” Fortner said.
VOL. 12 NO. 3 blueprints 7
OPINION
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN
Photo illustration by Sophia Crestale
ROAD TRIPS ARE BETTER THAN FLYING
Flights cancelled the week of Spring Break making students late coming back to school.
Road trips force you to spend time with those you love STAFF EDITORIAL oing on vacation is one of the most fun events one can participate in over a school break. The debate over flying vs taking a road trip constantly arises, but it is easily can be determined that road trips are superior. Roads trips have several benefits that outweigh flying and only lack in the category of time.
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COST Road trips are more affordable and provide an inexpensive way to travel the country. As the cost of flights continues to increase around the world, driving is the solution. On average ,flying costs double that of driving according to GoBankingRates.com. For those who can not afford to air travel, road trips provide the opportunity for travel. FLEXIBILITY When flying you are forced to a strict schedule and any variation could cause you to miss your flight. You have to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early in order to account for traffic and TSA. Driving allows you to leave whenever you wish and you do not have to deal with hundreds
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of other people trying to make a flight. Being able to control the pace at which you depart is a luxury that flying does not have. ALL-AROUND FUN The memories you make on an extremely long road trip are those that stay with you for a lifetime. Cracking jokes and blaring music at 4 a.m. are one of the most fun times in a person's life. There is arguably no fun allowed on an airplane because you have to take the people around you into consideration.
Having a normal Prom this year without Covid restrictions
BUILD YOUR OWN ADVENTURE: When flying, you are restricted from point A to point B. However, when driving you can visit a wide variety of destinations so it is like multiple trips in one. You can visit several state attractions all in one trip instead of being restricted to one destination. PACK WHATEVER YOU WANT: When flying, the TSA sets strict restrictions on the number of things you can take on the plane and what you can take on the plane. On road trips, you are able to pack snacks, drinks and a variety of other things you would not be allowed when
Horrible weather during the month of April.
OPINION
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS BILL NEEDS TO GO
With the passing of the new Senate bill, daylight savings will remain permanent.
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n March 2022, the Senate unanimously approved a bill to make daylight savings time permanent in 2023. Although the Senate approved the bill, they are still waitLYDIA PRIANO ing for the House of Representatives to pass it before it can go to the President to sign. There are a lot of people who are on different sides of the argument of whether the bill should be passed or not. People who are advocating for the bill are saying that it will be lighter later, so people can be out later. People who are against the bill are saying that it will be darker longer in the mornings in the winter. I think that the bill should not be passed. Although it would be nice for
it to be lighter later, people’s natuscientists say that they do not think ral sleep cycles will be messed up keeping daylight savings time persince the sunrise time in the winter manent is a good idea. They think will be a lot later. It that there will be a lot of will be very dark in potential health risks that "Keeping daylight the mornings while could come with it. Some people are going of the problems they savings times all to school or work. year round will also think will increase are The number of car mood disorders, cardiocause people to be vascular disease and an crashes people get more tired in the into in the mornincrease in motor vehicle mornings." ings could increase. crashes. This would happen I also think that if it because people stays lighter later, people will be so tired and thrown off their will spend a lot more of their money. regular schedule. Keeping daylight If it is light late at night, people are savings times all year round will also more likely to stay out doing things cause people to be more tired in the with their friends and family and mornings. Being tired in the morning spending money. could cause a lot of problems, for exKeeping daylight savings time perample making people late for school manent is not a good idea because it or work. can cause health problems, throw off Another reason I do not think the people’s sleep schedules and cause bill should be passed is that a lot of people to spend more money.
STOP SUPPORTING FAST FASHION
Shein uses cruel labor practices and produces large amounts of waste
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hein, an online fast fashion company, has gained popularity over the past couple of years. People purchase this brand because the clothes are exELLA KUNAR tremely cheap. The term “fast fashion” is exactly what it sounds like-- it is fast and cheap. Because the apparel is quick to produce, it is not ethically sourced. This brand should not be supported because they use cruel labor practices on their workers and produce the most waste out of any apparel company. Because Shein is an international company that does business in Britain, they are supposed to make public disclosures about working conditions along its supply chain, according to Reuters. The UK has a law in regards to child and forced labor. This law requires any companies to
publicly “provide a statement searchable link available on a prominent place on its home page...outlining the steps it is taking to prevent modern slavery in its supply chain." Shein still declines to answer any information publicly. According to Princeton University, it takes approximately 3,000 liters of water to make one cotton shirt. Toxic chemicals from dyeing the textiles end up in our oceans. Approximately 35% of microfibers are from textiles and synthetic materials produced by fast fashion companies. If marine animals consume these microplastics, the microfibers end up in our food chain and are eaten by humans. The more clothing people buy, the more likely they are to think of these clothes as disposable or one time use. Due to the ever changing trend cycle and microtrends flooding social media, “trends” come and go fast. People are not likely to wear these clothes more than one or two times and end up throwing it out at the end of the season. If people
wear these clothes as much as a nice quality piece of clothing, they would simply fall apart because of their cheap makeup. Therefore, tons of clothes and fabric end up polluting our landfills and our oceans. Though all fast fashion brands contribute to this system, Shein has the biggest impact on environmental waste, according to Sustainably Chic. Shein is also located out of China, which means it produces tons of carbon to transport the loads of clothes and all of the money that Americans are spending on this brand is going to another economy and does not support American workers and businesses. I understand that not everyone is able to afford more expensive clothing that is sustainable; however, it is more financially beneficial to buy staple investment pieces that will last for a long time. Also, if people are looking for cheaper options to clothing, there are plenty of second hand stores and thrift stores that offer cheaper clothing.
VOL. 12 NO. 3 blueprints 9
OPINION
READER OPINION BY ELLA KUNAR
“I have a lot of memories at the old location and I’m sad to see it go.” Dante Varasso '24 on new Whit's location.
“School breaks are important for the mental health of students and stress relief and the overall well being of the students.” Grant McCarthy '23 on the importance of breaks
“I am super excited to get dressed up for my first Prom”
Erin Chaffee '23 on Prom.
“I think we should not do daylight savings because there is no reason to and we are the only country to do it.” Anna Kate Heath '22 on new Daylight Savings bill.
" I prefer flying because planes are much more safe and I love the airport." Dylan Niedermeyer '23 on flying versus driving.
"My mom lives in a different state so it is my only opportunity to go and see her." Conor Male '22 on the importance of breaks.
“I prefer flying because I get carsick.” Alayna Kale '24 on flying versus driving. 10 blueprints SPRING 2022
" Whits is going to lose customers because no one will see the sign from the road and hasn't established a brand in the new location yet." Mia Zink '23 on new Whit's location.
"I can’t wait to get down and boogie at Prom." Matt Chaykowski '23 on Prom.
"I like when I get an extra hour of sleep but dislike when I lose an hour.” Rylie Lynde '24 on new Daylight Savings bill.
“In comparison to last year we have a lot more motivation to do better and better team chemistry."
Bella Rockwell '24 on upcoming lacrosse season.
“Spring Break allowed me to spend time with my fish that was passing away.” Maxton Messner '24 on the importance of breaks.
LIFESTYLE
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Giving back over $1 Million a year to local schools, charities and organizations
visit us at one of our many c onvenie nt locatio ns for great food, lo w prices & a fun casual time!
www.roosterswings.com 12 blueprints SPRING 2022
Photos by Ella Kunar, Bella Cox and Shelene Day.
BREAKS ARE A MUST FOR STUDENTS BY BELLA COX scaping the suffocating feeling of Ohio’s miserable weather and entering a new location that can bring beneficial emotions. Students traveling to places like Hawaii, North Carolina, Florida, Colorado, Puerto Rico and Arizona are ready to put school behind for a week and finally catch a break. Spring Break falls on the week of Mar. 26-Apr. 3. With the third quarter ending, the week before March is the busiest month for students. The end of March is the ideal time to get a break from everything that involves school. Spring Break is characterized as a week filled with fun, but it can also be completely relaxing. Students are guaranteed a full week of mental decompression. Not only has Spring Break been shown to be advantageous to one’s mental health, but it has also been shown to be beneficial to one’s physical health. When one’s mental condition is in good shape, the physical body gains all of the benefits as well. Anxiety and stress can be reduced at this time, which is extremely beneficial to an individu-
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al’s overall health. Students do not receive enough credit for the amount of work and pressure that is put onto them. With up to eight classes, classwork and
homework can quickly pile up on a student. Furthermore, many students participate in extracurricular activities, whether it is a sport, a club or a job, most students have something else on their plate. With school off for a week during Spring Break, students are allowed the opportunity to focus more on their extra curricular activities. Many students take advantage of this opportunity to work and save money; for seniors who will be attending college shortly, this is the ideal time to begin saving. Spring Break is also a good chance for those students who are behind in their studies to catch up with ease. They will get a whole week on their own to pace themselves with their work and get it done to the best of their ability. This break is crucial for students’ mental and physical health. It is coming at the perfect time and giving students a great opportunity to get away from school and relax. Students are traveling to various locations for spring break, but even those who are not traveling are looking forward to the break.
FUN DESTINATIONS
Kaylin Fuhrman is traveled to Puerto Rico with her mom, dad and older sister. “I was very excited to get away from school because I needed a break,” Kaylin said. In Puerto Rico Kaylin "enjoyed the nice weather, tried new foods, and relaxed by the beach."
Lauren Hagen and Emily McNabb traveled to Honolulu, Hawaii together for Spring Break. The trip was a bucket list item for Lauren. “I have always wanted to go to Hawaii, so it was like a dream to finally get to,” Lauren said.
Micheal Sarap traveled to Naples, Fla. with his mom, dad and little sister, but he also met numerous friends down in Bonita, Florida. “I was very excited for this trip!” Micheal said. “I loved being with my friends every day at the beach."
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LIEFESTYLE Abby took these pictures during field trips all around the country. Below: Hiking in the desert. Left: View of Jerusalem. Far Left: Abby's group she travels with. Bottom: Another view of the city. Photos courtesy of Abby Sanders.
ISREAL OR BUST
Junior Abby Sanders spends second semester abroad in Jerusalem to explore her heritage BY MADELYN BARKER unior Abby Sanders is completing her school year in an unlikely place- Israel. Abby, a person of Jewish faith, is very involved in her religious community and, last summer, spent a majority of the break in Israel. While she was across the globe, she remained active on social media, frequently posting photos of herself and her friends doing different things like eating Israaeli food, going to the beach after a school day or going to the Jerusalem Wall. She first decided that she wanted to do an exchange student program at the end of her sophomore year (the 2020-2021 school year), but after taking an extended trip to Israel over the summer, she was convinced that she needed to do a semester abroad in Israel. While many people choose to do a semester abroad in a European country like France or Italy, Abby chose Israel. “Israel and the environment here and it is so closely tied with Judaism, so I feel a deeper connection here than in any other country,” she said. She really wasn’t interested in doing an exchange student program anywhere other than Israel- it was Israel; or bust. One of the trickiest parts of studying abroad was figuring out what kind of program she would be going with. Abby chose a Jewish program called Heller High, which, hosts a group of about 50 American and Canadian high school students each semester in Israel and live in a community called a Kibbutz. Everyone in the program attends
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school while traveling around the country. Abby’s day-to-day schedule is also much different than a typical American student. In the morning she and the other students in her program have Hebrew and Jewish History class, and then from 1-7 p.m., they take general studies classes (all of the classes she would normally take back home). Then they have group activity and free time to study, workout, etc. Sometimes they take tiyuls (trips) where they go to different historical sites in Israel to see what they are learning about in Jewish History. Unlike American Schools, many schools in Israel place a big emphasis on the student to teacher ratio being lower. While Abby typically has about 15 classmates in Hebrew and Jewish History, in her general studies classes, there are usually 2-5 students max, even going on a first-name basis with teachers and also texting them on their personal phone number with questions about the curriculum. In addition to the smaller class sizes, one of Abby’s favorite parts of going to school in Israel is “not getting much homework since the school day goes from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., which is pretty nice.” In most study-abroad experiences, a student may stay with a family or in a hostel with the rest of their program but, for the students in Abby’s program, they stay in one of the Kibbutz Tzuba hotels, called Kibbutz Hotel. She and other students in her program room with up to four other people, creating a very close-knit environment.
ACE THE APPLICATION
LIFESTYLE
Planning and action are the keys to earning a spot in the National Honor Society BY LYDIA PRIANO everal students panic when it is time to apply for National Honors Society because they realize they do not meet all of the requirements and are not fully prepared. Juniors and seniors with at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA have the chance to apply for National Honors Society every fall. They have to fulfill requirements, then submit an application listing their achievements. “NHS Acceptance is based on four criteria: leadership, scholarship, service, and character,” NHS selection committee member Elizabeth Smith said. “This means that preparation involves working to maintain a 3.5 GPA, accumulating 40 hours of community service with non-profit organizations by the time of application, striving to be an innovative leader in both the school and community and maintaining a quality character.” A student has to complete 40 hours of community service with at least two different non-profit organizations. They must have at least 5 hours with one organization for the hours to count. They get 10 hours for participating in extracurricular activities at school. For the next requirements, students can either have 3 leadership positions or a B- or above in three AP or advanced classes by the end of sophomore year and enrolled in two additional AP or advanced courses for junior year. If applying as a senior,
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a student must have completed at least 6 AP or advanced classes. In order to be fully prepared to apply for National Honors Society, students should start preparing their freshman year. “I recommend starting to prepare for NHS right when you get to high school,” junior member Erin Chaffee said. “I think that gives you enough time to plan everything out and get your service hours in without feeling rushed.” There are a lot of challenging aspects to the application process, some of which can be avoided with some foresight. “One of the hardest parts about the application process for NHS was getting all of the signatures from every place I volunteered at,” Chaffee said. Students must get signatures from someone who works there to prove that they actually volunteered. Students should print off the service hour log sheet on Schoology and take that with them when they volunteer to get it signed. “Another major factor in the application process was planning what your leadership positions were and making sure you qualified for the required amount,” Chaffee said. At least one of the three leadership positions must come from inside of the school. Some leadership positions students can do at school are being a mentor to the upcoming freshman or being an officer in a
NHS adviser Judith Henderson, Clare Hotchkiss, Maggie Miller and Ella Johnson volunteer at a food drive. Volunteerism is an important aspect of NHS. Photo courtesy of Ava Minton. club. Students can find information in Schoology by clicking on their names in the top right corner, which will cause a dropdown menu to come up. They should select “Granville High School" in the drop-down menu. This will take them to a page where they will need to select “resources” on the left side, and then select the folder that says “National Honors Society.” There are a lot of different benefits to being a part of the National Honors Society. “NHS gives members a chance to create, lead, and participate with their peers in service opportunities both in our schools and around our community,” NHS adviser Judith Henderson said.
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BROADWAY BOUND BY ELLA KUNAR rom the time he could walk, Cory Hammond knew he wanted to dance. It was like breathing for him, his passion came so naturally. Cory is currently a sophomore, but he plans to finish all his credits next year and graduate a year early so he can start his career on Broadway. Cory has already done a lot to further his dance career. He already has an agent who will help him get paying jobs. Cory plans to move to New York City after he graduates. Here, he plans to dance and attend school at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) performing arts college. He hopes to get a four-year degree at AMDA and to someday be on Broadway. “I’m going to AMDA’s summer program, which will hopefully get me a good experience with the school,” Cory said. Cory has been constantly training for this moment. He has been dancing since he was 4-years-old and has already made appearances dancing on TV and with professional dancers. Cory dances six days a week, threefive hours every day. He also has been going to dance conventions on the weekends where he can establish connections with other dancers and teachers and get more professional training. Additionally, Cory has been working on his singing to prepare for Broadway auditions. Cory says his family is very supportive of him and his goals. His parents have known about his goals from a young age and have helped his ambitions become actions. “As parents, you foster their desires to form whatever path your children want to follow,” Cory’s parents said. Though Cory’s goal is following an untraditional career path, his parents have made sure Cory has been offered stability by continuing in-per-
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Cory poses for a “C Jump.” Cory is a skilled dancer who is determined to display his talents on Broadway. Photos courtsey of Argyle Photography
son high school until he graduates. “While it would have been easier to have home schooled Cory to benefit his life path, the Granville education, music program and continued training at Patty’s Dance Center was a value factor that we wanted to protect,” Cory’s parents said. His parents believe that the path he is currently taking offers him the best of both worlds. His parents also said that principal Matt Durst and school counselor Elizibeth Adams have been very supportive throughout this experience. Cory has certain attributes that have made this career path realistic. Cory’s parents say that he is an over-
achiever and dislikes failure, causing him to meet all of his expectations. Cory’s dance teacher, Jeanette Kieffer, said that Cory’s attitude is an asset that will help him get further in his dance career. “Cory is one of the most positive dancer’s I have taught,” Jeanette Kieffer said. “He is determined to get any challenge that comes his way.” Not only is Cory’s attitude outstanding, but he is captivating when he dances. This will set him apart from other dancers. “Cory is a force to be reckoned with when he dances,” Kieffer said, “He is a very technical and passionate dancer.”
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SPORTS history). The team sent Peyton Costa and Carson Miller to states. Miller placed fifth at states.
The basketball team celebrates after winning the LCL title. They secured their second LCL title in a row and won the Division II district championship. Photo courtesy of Ella Hoover.
A SEASON TO REMEMBER By Kaison Durham he winter sports teams had terrific seasons. Three winter teams secured LCL champions and twelve winter players secured an all LCL team. These athletes set records not only for the school but also for the entire state of Ohio.
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Boys Basketball The boys basketball ended the season 14-9 and were LCL champions. Dante Varrasso secured first team LCL and first team District 11. Rex Rader got first team LCL and honorable mention district 11. Colt Shaw and Dylan Niedermeyer got second team LCL. Girls Basketball The girls basketball team had a season to remember. They secured their second LCL title in a row and won the Division II district championship, but they came up short in the regional semi-finals to the soon-to-be state champions, Archbishop Alter.
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Cate Schieber earned LCL player of the year, first team all-LCL, first team all central district, and third team all-Ohio. Ella Wigal earned first team allLCL, first team all-central district, and second team all-Ohio. Harper Annarino earned second team allLCL and honorable mention all-central district. Ava Gossman was honorable mention all LCL. Competition Cheer The competition cheer team had another record-setting season. They secured third in states, first in their division at Nationals and won Grand Champions at Nationals out of 18 teams. Wrestling The wrestling team had a great season. They secured the Steve Stahl Granville Wrestling Invitational, the Big Walnut High School Invitational, LCL runner-up, sectional champions, and sixth place in the district tournament (highest in school
Swimming The girls and boys swimming teams secured LCL champs. Liz Hedger earned seventh at states in the 100 backstroke. Julian Rodgers, Jacob Teter, Josh Remlinger and Graham Mayberry-- placed 7th in the 200 freestyle relay at the DII State Championship. Hannah Hardin placed 6th in the 100 freestyle at states. Dakota Baillargeon, Avery Spiker, Avery Koester, Lydia Sturgeon, Brooke Lemert and Caroline Otter all attended states in Canton. Bowling The bowling team secured LCL Champs. Kyle Neeley was 1st team LCL and LCL Player of the Year. Adam Szczyt was 1st team LCL. Drew Ott and Parker Sherman honorable mention LCL. Kyle Neeley also set a school record. Indoor Track The indoor track team had a great showing at states. Lily Eckels placed 8th in the 800m. Nora Carrington placed 7th in triple jump. Clara Wildermuth placed 5th in weight throw. Regina Rose placed 4th in the 3200m. The 4x800m team placed 3rd including, Eckels, Bergergon, Poling and Lehman. Dylan Christion secured state champion in the 800m, setting a school record and an Ohio Division I record.
BY THE NUMBERS The Blue Aces have been successful as both teams and individuals. Here are standout numbers.
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New members joined 157 former student-athletes, coaches and honorees in the prestigous Granville Athletics Hall of Fame
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Total LCL championships
1st
Place ranking for the competition cheer team at Nationals in Florida.
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Athletes who attended the Division I OATCCC state track meet.
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Athletes who competed in the OHSAA state swim meet in Canton.
SPORTS
SARAP TO PLAY AT THE NEXT LEVEL feels great to be the one that the team the younger kids and community look up to. Q: What are your expectations for the team? A: I expect everyone on the team to give their 100% effort everyday. Q: What are you most proud of in your high school career? A: I am most proud of being a 4-year varsity athlete. Q: What led you to choose Belmont Abbey to continue your career? A: I chose Belmont Abbey because they excel in the entrepreneurial field, it is 10 minutes outside of Charlotte, and, lastly, they have a record of being a strong lacrosse program. Q: If you could give one piece of advice to underclassmen what would it be? A: If I could give a piece of advice to all the underclassmen, it would be to hit the wall. Q: How would you describe the spirit of the team this year? A: The team has a ton of energy and confidence this year. Every practice is competitive. Michael Sarap takes a shot in their first game. Photo courtesy of Lisa Wade
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BY DANIELLE VARRASSO
What is your favorite memory of playing lacrosse at Granville?
Q:Why did you choose lacrosse over other sports you played? A: I enjoy playing lacrosse a lot more than any other sport I played in the past because it is very fast paced.
A: Coach Bob hitting the stanky leg after we beat Valley 20-8.
Q: What is your main goal for this season? A: My main goal for this season is to beat New Albany and DeSales. Also I want to make it further than the second round in the playoffs.
Q: What are you most excited about for this season? A: I am most excited to win a lot of games and score a lot of goals and celebrate with my best friends on and off the field.
Q: What has been your favorite part of playing high school lacrosse? A: My favorite part of playing high school lacrosse is all the great memories I have made with the team and the work it takes to progress as a team throughout the season to be a great team.
Q: How does it feel being a senior leader? A: To be a senior leader comes with a lot of responsibility, but it
Q: How would you describe the chemistry of the team this year? A: We are all very close and it helps a lot because we are able to trust each other.
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SPORTS TWEET IN POOR TASTE
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hen Adam Schefter, a prominent sports writer and the leader in breaking news for the NFL, reported on the tragic death of Dwayne Haskins, he decided to include Haskins' recent “struggles” in a tweet. Schefter’s tweet stated, “Dwayne BY CADEN Haskins, a standout MCDERMOTT at Ohio State before struggling to catch on with Washington and Pittsburgh in the NFL, died this morning when he got hit by a car in South Florida, per his agent Cedric Saunders. Haskins would have turned 25 years old on May 3.” Schefter’s criticisms of Haskins career in light of his tragic death was completely unnecessary. This was a time of grieving for the friends and family, but Schefter decided to make it about his play. His statement caused an uproar on Twitter from current and former NFL players, many of them calling for ESPN to fire him. Immediately following this, he deleted the tweet and replaced the comments on his play with a list of his accomplishments. Although his tweet was insensitive, I believe it does not warrant him being fired. Sometimes journalists do get it wrong, and he did not double down or push back against the hate. However, his biggest mistake is not issuing an apology on Twitter, rather he directed people to go to his podcast to see his apology. This appears to be a cruel way to capitalize on all the attention and promote his podcasts. Adam Schefter’s tweets have now caused many to look at him in a much more negative light. Now there is nothing he can do to change public opinion. His mistakes have demonstrated the importance of accountability. Everyone makes mistakes; it is an inevitable part of the human experience. The most important part is owning up to them and letting your shortcomings help you in the future.
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Photo illustration by Sophia Crestale
NCAA SHOULD HAVE FOLLOWED USA SWIMMING POLICY FOR TRANSGENDER SWIMMERS BY ALYSHA WALLACE niversity of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas sparked intense controversy after winning the NCAA Division I national title in the 500-yard freestyle, becoming the first transgender woman to win the title. Many people who are against the idea of Thomas performing in the women’s league have very solid arguments. The first argument I have heard is that men have physiological traits that could provide an advantage in swimming. According to associate professor of exercise science Dr. Catalina Casaru from University of West Alabama, men have a larger lung capacity, leaner body mass, and hearts that circulate oxygen more efficiently. These attributes would all give a big advantage in swimming Others who are in support of Thomas have stated that “everyone has a genetic advantage." While this argument is valid, men are automatically at an advantage compared to women. Thomas stands 6’1, which is an unusual height for women, which will automatically give an advantage in swimming due to less distance to cover and a larger wingspan. This controversy could have easily been avoided if the NCAA would have changed their policies on transgender swimmers to fit that of the USA Swimming policies. By doing
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this, they would have been able to fall back on the fact that they are simply following the guidelines that are the same as USA Swimming. USA Swimming has specific policies that transgender athletes need to follow in order to be able to compete. Their policy states that no transgender athlete would be allowed to compete in the women’s category prior to showing that her concentration of testosterone in serum has been less than 5 nmol/L for a continuous period of 36 months. Another reason why this is unfair is because transgender females’ testosterone levels are allowed to be higher than cisgender females. This is not fair and by doing this, transgender athletes are given an automatic advantage before they even start the competition. Further, transgender athletes hoping to compete in women’s events would also have to provide “evidence that the prior physical development of the athlete as a male, as mitigated by any medical intervention, does not give the athlete a competitive advantage over the athlete’s cisgender female competitors.” Final determination of eligibility would be made by a panel. If the NCAA would have followed these same guidelines, then Lia Thomas would not have been able to compete and this whole situation would have been avoided.
SPORTS TIMELINE 8TH GRADE
Photo courtesy of HR Imaging
After having a seizure, Jump is diagnosed with an AVM in his brain. Later that year, he has surgery at Boston Children's Hospital.
SOPHOMORE YEAR
Jump learns how to kick
JUNIOR YEAR
JUMPING THROUGH ADVERSITY After a medical issue stopped him from playing the football, Davidson Jump found an alternative path back to the sport he loves
BY KAISON DURHAM avidson Jump was sitting in his eighth grade English class, little did he know his entire life would change at that moment. Davidson was sitting in his class and felt normal until things he read on the board started to stress him out. He was having a seizure. “The whole room was spinning, there were floaters in my vision and my eyes were twitching,” Jump said. He was taken to the nurse and then the hospital. Jump had a lot of tests done and got no answers. He was told that it is common for teens to have random seizures, but that did not sit right with him and his parents. Jump had an EEG test and doctors saw nothing different in his brain. But his neurologist, who was a resident and did not have a lot of experience, took another look at his results and found something that saved his life. Jump had an AVM in his occipital and temporal lobes. An AVM is a tangle of blood vessels in his brain. Doctors explained it as "pumping a fire hose into a water hose, or even a ticking time bomb,” according to Jump. Jump needed surgery to have the AVM removed. He and his family decided on Boston Children’s Hospital to
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Jump becomes the starting kicker for the varsity football team
SENIOR YEAR
Jump commits to the Denison University football team as a kicker
have his surgery. It was a 30-hour, two-day surgery that was going to change his life. There was a risk that Jump could not read, talk or walk right again after the surgery, which alarmed him and his family. Jump's reading level dropped significantly after the surgery. “They said I had the reading level of a 3rd grader,” Jump said. He said it was scary as he was about to start high school and had a long way to go. Doctors told Jump that he could never play football again. This was tough on him as that was his favorite thing in the whole world. But there was one way he could still play: kicking. At the start of the sophomore year football season he started to try kicking. He wasn’t the best at it but he kept pushing through. By his junior year, he became the starting kicker. Because of his hard work and dedication, Jump earned a chance to kick at the next level. He has committed to Denison University to kick for the next four years. Jump has been through a lot of adversity in these past five years, but he has really shown how much heart and dedication he has to fight through the tough times.
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STAFF PICKS
"Everyone should watch anime because it is very cool." Colden Kadlic
"It has good remixes."
"I really like the song 'Good Directions.'" Demon Slayer
Kaison Durham
Billy Currington
Ella Mork
Soundcloud
EVERYONE MUST PLAY THE NEW STAR WARS LEGO GAME BY COLDEN KADLIC he nostalgic "Lego Star Wars" video game was recreated and released on Apr. 5. This video game offers the complete saga, all nine movies and additional add ons related to Star Wars. Comparative to the original which only offered six movies, this game has three more movies to play and spans 75 hours of playable content. However, from my personal experience with this game, I expect it to take around 200 hours due to all of the side missions and the difficulty of the levels. Starting this game you can choose which trilogy to begin with and I began with the true "Episode I, A New Hope." The new game offers similar levels to that of the old game but with a twist. The levels offer a new fun experience however with the same old nostalgic feeling. A majority of those who decided to purchase this game did so because they grew up on the original and their childhood was shaped because of it. My love and passion for all things Star Wars is partially due to this game. Now being able to play this game once again the same passion and fire is being sparked in my soul. I have worked through three levels so far and do not plan on stopping anytime soon. "A New Hope" starts out with playing as R2-D2, C-3PO, and Princess Leia escaping the pursuit of Darth Vader and the empire. Then you shift to the young moisture farmer Luke Skywalker on Tattoine who meets up with the two droids after Leia is caught. Luke is told to visit Old Ben Kenobi and the droids relay a message to him from Princess Leia. The group then travels into Mos Espa and finds Han Solo and his friend Chewbacca, who then takes them to save the princess and assist in blowing up the Death Star. These missions feel exactly like I have been thrown into the movie and are able to live out my lifelong dream of being a Jedi. The graphics and play style are significantly better than the previous game and because of this, it is so much better. On top of this, the fighting style is more in-depth and offers combos and various different attack methods depending on the characters and their unique abilities. This game offers hundreds of playable characters all featured in the Star Wars movies. What I do like more about this game is the sheer amount of characters you are able use when compared to the old game whos number of characters were somewhat limited. Furthermore, characters are divided up into groups like Jedi, Bounty Hunters, Dark Side, Smugglers, Empire and Builders. Each group has unique special abilities that help you complete certain tasks.
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The new Lego Star Wars game is fun for everyone. Source: XBox Again where this game is a triumph over that of the old is the fact that it offers a free play where you can travel to any planet you wish and do a variety of side missions as any character you want. Also, this game offers flying, which the old game did not exactly execute perfectly. My favorite character to use so far has been Yoda. Yoda offers a swift and agile playstyle while still using Force abilities like other Jedi. His combos and fighting style is visually stunning because of the numbers of flips and spins he works into his fights. My favorite fight has been the Luke Skywalker vs Darth Vader in "The Empire Strikes Back". This fight is very fast paced and offers all of the nostalgic factors plus more. It feels exactly like the movie when you are fighting in Cloud City trying to avoid the strikes of Darth Vader. This game is far superior to that of the old game and I feel that even if you are not a die hard Star Wars fan like myself you should consider purchasing and playing this masterpiece of a game.
ENTERTAINMENT "Great to jam out to."
"So funny, quality reality TV." Danielle Varasso
Bella Cox Jersey Shore
Rex Orange County's new album
"I have been watching 'Grey's Anatomy' recently."
"It really gets you in the summer mood." Ella Kunar
Country Music
Lydia Priano
Grey's Anatomy
BY ELLA MORK which is a very big business contribince we were little, Whit’s was al- utor. The new Whit’s has a few tables ways the place to go. Kids would outside but it does not compare to walk there after school or ride the old one because the seats used to their bikes there with their friends. be right in the center of everything Parents would let their kids walk over and really encapsulates the vibe of there while they’d wait for the bill at Granville. dinner. Whit’s has been a staple in Although it is sad to see the old downtown Granville for my 18 years, Whit’s go, at least it’s still the same and there has been a lot of controdelicious taste and same products. I versy with the Whit’s location moving am glad Whit’s is still a part of Grandown the street to 226 East Broadway. ville and hope it always will be. The old Whit’s location at the center of downtown was better. The new Whit’s opened into the old Goumas chocolate shop/popcorn shop. It is a lot more spacious with more area to hangout and sit. It also has more room for storage and freezing, which is definitely beneficial because the custard would sometimes melt very easily. Workers say it is a nicer facility because it is newer and has more seating area inside as well. Although the old location was small, the environment was always welcoming and felt packed, which I think a lot of people liked. The new location has a lot more space, but it is in an area where no one really goes. Yes, it is right down the street, but it feels dead down in that area. After getting dinner at the Pub, Day y Noche, or any restaurants in the downtown area, the old Whit’s was always right next door. Although now it is only a few buildings down, it still just The new Whit's location is located at the old Goudoesn’t feel the same. The new location also has mas. Photo by Ella Mork parking and outside seating,
Photo courtesy of Mrs. Schnabel
NEW WHIT'S LOCATION IS NOT AS GOOD AS THE OLD ONE
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UPCOMING EVENTS BY BELLA COX BAND OMEA STATE April 29 CINDERELLA May 6-7 SPRING BAND CONCERT May 11 SPRING ORCHESTRA CONCERT May 12 SPRING BLUE STEEL CONCERT May 12 SPRING CHOIR CONCERT May 16 SENIOR AWARDS NIGHT May 16
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